“I’ve been fortunate to live and work in Lehigh Valley for more than 35 years, and it’s been a true honor to serve in this role for 14 of those years,” said Michael Stershic, president of Discover Lehigh Valley.

LEHIGH VALLEY, Pa. (PRWEB)March 13, 2018

Discover Lehigh Valley®, the destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting tourism in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh and Northampton counties, today announced that President Michael Stershic will retire at the end of 2018. Stershic made the announcement at the group’s board of directors meeting this afternoon to officially begin the search process and allow ample time for a seamless transition over the next nine months.

“I’ve been fortunate to live and work in Lehigh Valley for more than 35 years, and it’s been a true honor to serve in this role for 14 of those years,” said Stershic. “I have also been fortunate to work alongside incredible colleagues who strive to fulfill our mission every day, helping to promote our wonderful downtowns, attractions, festivals, venues, restaurants and sporting events that drive tourism and investment in our region. I am confident in the board of directors and the team we have in place to ensure this important work not only continues, but also thrives.”

Travel and tourism is indeed a major economic producer with more than $2 billion spent annually in the region and nearly $400 million provided in tax revenue for federal, state and local governments, making Lehigh Valley one of the fastest-growing regions in Pennsylvania. Discover Lehigh Valley works to promote and develop Lehigh Valley as a leisure and business travel destination and to secure tourism dollars for local businesses, properties, attractions and more.

“Mike has been a champion and incredible advocate for the entire Lehigh Valley during an exceptional time of growth as it relates to new tourism attractions and hotels,” said Kassie Hilgert, President and Chief Executive Officer of ArtsQuest and chairwoman of Discover Lehigh Valley’s board of directors. “His leadership has helped to drive tremendous growth and visibility for the region and Discover Lehigh Valley, and we are grateful to him for his passion, dedication and support. We wish him the best and congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement.”

The search for Stershic’s replacement is already underway. In anticipation of this career milestone, the Executive Committee of Discover Lehigh Valley’s board of directors appointed a search committee to be led by Hilgert and Lehigh Valley IronPigs President and General Manager Kurt Landes.

The board expects to name a new president in early fall to allow for some overlap with Stershic’s term and ensure a smooth succession. Applicants interested in the position can visit MyHRPartnerInc.com for more information.

About Discover Lehigh Valley

Established in 1984, Discover Lehigh Valley® makes Lehigh and Northampton counties a premier destination through marketing and image building that increases the number of visitors, the number of nights they stay and the number of things they do in the region.

Discover Lehigh Valley’s official visitor website and blog, DiscoverLehighValley.com and LehighValleyInSite.com keeps locals and visitors abreast of all things happening in the region. Visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages. Compelling photography and videos, brochures and detailed visitor information make the sites effective trip-planning tools. Along with Discover Lehigh Valley’s social media channels, the online platforms communicate directly with consumers. Follow @LehighValleyPa on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Travelers can also call and stop into one of the many visitor centers for additional information.

About Lehigh Valley, Pa.

Set amid gentle hills and charming country sides, Lehigh Valley, Pa. is home to Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton, as well as dozens of small towns and picturesque boroughs.

The region is steeped in pre-Colonial, Early American and industrial history. Lehigh Valley has an impressive range of tourist attractions including nationally-recognized events like Musikfest, wineries and breweries, the Lehigh Valley Zoo, outdoor activities, world-class sporting events, 10 colleges and universities, and is home to America’s favorite brands such as Crayola®, Peeps®, Mike & Ike®, Martin Guitars and Mack Trucks. The region offers a diverse array of memorable things to do and plenty of dining options to fit every budget and taste.

And, it’s easy to get to and around. Lehigh Valley is located approximately 60 minutes north of Philadelphia and 90 minutes west of New York City by car.